Classic X-COM franchise set to return as a first-person shooter

2K Games announced today that the publisher, along with developer 2K Marin (Bioshock 2), will be bringing the classic (and niche) X-COM franchise back to life by “re-imagining the suspense, tension and fear” of the original series for the Xbox 360 and PC.

The new game, simply titled XCOM, is currently in development at 2K Marin exclusively for the Xbox 360 and PC, and aims to combine strategic elements with which fans of the original X-COM will be familiar, with a narrative filled with suspense, all wrapped up in a “tense and unique first-person shooter experience.”

As a re-imagining of the classic franchise, XCOM will follow the story of an FBI agent tasked with locating and destroying an unknown enemy that threatens the survival of humanity itself, using strategy and wit to overcome the overwhelming odds of combat.

By placing players in the first-person perspective, the developers hope to increase the tension of the game and heighten the fear of coming face-to-face with a ruthless enemy bent on humanity’s destruction.

President of 2K, Christoph Hartmann, said of the project:

“With BioShock 2, the team at 2K Marin proved themselves as masters of first-person, suspenseful storytelling, and with XCOM they will re-imagine and expand the rich lore of this revered franchise.

“Players will explore the world of XCOM from an immersive new perspective and experience firsthand the fear and tension of this gripping narrative ride.”